The Genuine Cuba

As Cuba is opening to the world, it naturally attracts an increasing number of visitors interested in exploring its rich colonial and revolutionary history as well as romantic landmark culture bursting with street life and music. We are therefore offering you a 10 day itinerary, which is going to give you the most genuine Cuban experience, revealing you the major historical and cultural sites as well as immersing you in the everyday rhythm of the Caribbean Island. The tour is designed in a way that ensures maximum interaction with the locals – from staying at private houses (Casas Particulares) to visiting numerous musical performances and salsa dances. For better or worse Cuba is without a doubt changing by the day, so do not miss some of the last opportunities to explore the genuine face of this land of colonial conquests, revolutionary movements, and vibrant social life spiced by rum, cigars and exotic dances!

Highlights:
Havana - the landmark capital of Cuba
Cienfuegos - a city on the southern coast of Cuba, revealing the French colonial influence on the island
Trinidad - a UNESCO heritage site and one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the world
Viñales Valley - scenic area still preserving traditional agriculture techniques


Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrival to Havana
Arrival and private transfer to our accommodation in central Havana.

Day 2. Havana
We start the day with a walking tour of Old Havana, exploring the historical sites and architecture of the city as well as its vibrant everyday life. After spending some free time in the afternoon we go for a sunset walk on the famous Malecon alley, enjoying the beautiful and romantic coastline of Havana. The evening is dedicated to exploration of the city’s nightlife and live music. Overnight in Havana.

Day 3. Havana
Our exploration of Havana continues with a city bus tour taking us through the local museums and 1-hour tour in an old American car. Free time until the rest of the day, dinner and going out in the evening. Overnight in Havana.

Day 4. Havana
Today we explore the central part of Havana, Valedo or the beaches of east Havana. Free time until the rest of the day, dinner and going out in the evening. Overnight in Havana.

Day 5. Cienfuegos - Trinidad
After breakfast we depart to the historical town Cienfuegos on a private old American car-ride (250km, approx. 3.5 hours). After exploring the city we continue to the next stop on the tour – Trinidad (80km, approx. 1.5 hours). Dinner and going out for live music. Overnight at Trinidad.

Day 6. Trinidad
After breakfast we go for a walking tour in the city. Free time with extra activities in the afternoon, and visiting Playa Ancon beach for the sunset. Dinner and going out for live music in the evening. Overnight at Trinidad.

Day 7. Trinidad
Free day with opportunities for different activities - hiking, horse riding or escape to beautiful Ancon Beach. Dinner and going out for live music in the evening. Overnight at Trinidad.

Day 8. Santa Clara - Viñales
After breakfast we continue to Santa Clara where we visit the museum of Che Guevara (100 km. approx 2 hours). After a coffee and lunch break we drive to Viñales via Havana (450 km, approx. 6 hours). Dinner and free time. Overnight at Viñales.

Day 9. Viñales
Today we explore the natural beauty of the south-western corner of Cuba. After breakfast we go for a walk in the scenic Viñales Valley or other active activities such as horse riding or biking. Dinner and free time. Overnight at Viñales.

Day 10. Departure
Possible time for some extra activities before the flight back. Departure.


Price Includes:
9 nights in private houses hosted by locals (double/twin room)
Walking city tour of Havana with local guide
Walking city tour of Trinidad with local guide
Walks in Vinales valley
Airport transfers( If you arrive and departure with recommended flight with the group)
Private transport between the cities total more than 1000 km. Transfer from door to door with old american cars: 4 people in a car. Old American cars are big and you will travel in a comfort.

Not Included:
International Flight ticket
Museum entrance tickets and all entry tickets
meals and drinks except breakfast
Personal expenses
Travel insurance (Compulsory for entry in Cuba)

Additional Services:
Single room supplement: 286 EUR
Cuban Tourist Card: 28 EUR per person (mandatory)


Gallery


The Genuine Cuba (Rated 4.75 / 5 Based on 415 Reviews.)
Group Size
Min. 10

Qeshm - Iran's Mystical Island

Step into a world where ancient Persian traditions dance with the timeless beauty of Qeshm Island's...

Equatorial Guinea extension: Bioko Island Cultural & Nature Immersion

Explore sacred peaks, pristine rainforests, and deep-rooted island traditions. This immersive...

Caucasus Uncovered. Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh

An off-beat holiday to the Caucasus that explores Armenia's spectacular mountain scenery, medieval ...

View all» What people say about us

Great
Penguin Travel on Trust Pilot
Based on 86 reviews
Trust Pilot
Binky's Review Verified review Verified
Great caucus Explorer trip
Caucus Explorer( Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan ) was a great trip . Even though our Van is fully...
Beth, 5 May
Daniel's review Verified review Verified
8 day Caucasus trip
5/5 for the Caucasus trip in apr/may 2024. Everything was well planned and executed.
Haris, 3 May
Maribeth's review Verified review Verified
Excellent and Amazing Tour
Excellent tour. My highlight of the tour is Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid and more places. I like the itinerary...
Arnold, 6 April
View all»

Blog

14.02.2025 11:50

Everything you need to know about travelling to Cameroon and Central African Republic: Essential travel information (Q&A with our tour leader)

We just got back from an unforgettable journey through Cameroon and the Central African Republic, and we’re still buzzing from the experience. It was an adventure in the truest sense - bouncing along remote dirt roads in sturdy 4x4s, deep in the Central African rainforest, where every turn reveals something incredible—lush green landscapes, curious children running out to greet us,...


12.02.2025 07:47

Into the Heart of Africa: A Journey Through the Central African Republic

Some places pull you in with their beauty, others with their mystery. The Central African Republic (CAR) does both. It’s not a country you stumble into—it’s a place you choose, a place that challenges and rewards in equal measure. Our journey took us through its bustling capital, deep into the jungle, across colonial relics, and to breathtaking waterfalls, but more than...


24.01.2025 06:56

Îles du Salut, French Guiana: Paradise with a Past (What You Need to Know About Visitng the Islands)

Just off the coast of French Guiana, the Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands) shimmer like emerald jewels in the Atlantic, enticing travelers with their beauty and enigmatic past. The name might suggest refuge, but for most who came here, salvation was the furthest thing from reality. The islands were so named because they offered a safe haven from the deadly diseases that ravaged French Guiana's...


22.01.2025 08:09

Kaieteur Falls: Exploring Guyana’s Majestic Wonder (Facts, Legends and Practical Information for Visiting the Falls)

Nestled deep in the pristine rainforest of Guyana, Kaieteur Falls is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Cascading 741 feet (226 meters) from the Potaro River into a gorge below, it’s not only one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls globally but also one of the most mesmerizing. Whether you're drawn by its sheer scale, lush surroundings, or the sense of untouched...